Acne is a frequent skin condition caused as a result of hormonal shifts in the body. When looked at in detail the androgen hormones cause excessive secretion of oil that make skin pores clogged and accumulated by bacteria and dirt. It is a common misconception that only adolescents suffer from acne and waiting it out would allow the acne to disappear on its own. On the contrary acne can develop at any age from twenties to the fifties. Generally females suffer from acne more often due to their menstrual period. The androgen hormones created by the ovaries during the menstrual cycle are identified to be the cause for acne breakouts therefore some treatments offer to limit or suppress the excessive oil secretion by the hormones.
Oral contraceptives are recommended by doctors for acne treatment primarily because certain hormones in the medication reduce the excessive secretion of oil or sebum; it also helps control mood swings and hormonal imbalances. Such medication is usually prescribed if the acne is severe. For mild acne over the counter medication and homemade treatments as well as skin care products help resolve the problem. Severe acne requires stronger medication usually antibiotics, oral medication which can kill the bacteria and even remove the acne permanently. However stronger medication causes greater side effects. Therefore before taking such medication it is advisable to consult a doctor.
Taking oral contraceptives follows a simple process. One can get prescription for the pills from the relevant dermatologist who would prescribe such treatment if other treatments or acne medication have proved ineffective. Some pills most commonly prescribed include estradiol, ethinyl or drospirenone which have shown to improve acne. However before the pills are prescribed it is necessary that the doctors clearly identify the cause for the acne breakout.
The medication carries some risks, it cannot be prescribed to females that smoke, suffer from high blood pressure, frequent migraines or are over 35. The medication can lead to development of liver and breast cancer. Therefore caution needs to be taken before undergoing such treatment. It is also necessary to refer to a doctor before taking the medication.
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